California passes law against anti-gay therapy

California lawmakers banned a controversial therapy technique that attempts to make homosexual teenagers straight.
The law, sponsored by State Senator Ted W. Lieu, states that no mental health provider can use therapy techniques with the goal of changing or reducing romantic feelings towards the same sex.
Lieu says the law will prevent children from being psychologically abused.
Gay rights activists say the practice is dangerous and can put teenagers receiving the therapy at higher risk of depression and suicide.
The law is protested by some therapists and conservative religious leaders who say that banning the therapy is a violation of free choice, said the New York Times.
The ban will go into effect Jan. 1, according to CBS News.